Summerville’s leaders want to turn part of the historic downtown into a spot where adults 21 and older can carry open alcoholic drinks outdoors. The idea is to help local shops and cafés by giving visitors more reasons to wander the sidewalks. Similar zones exist in other cities, and the town hopes
A local soccer club owner recently dropped a bombshell in St. Louis by writing a check for $10 million. What’s surprising isn’t just the amount but where it’s going. Instead of flashy stadium upgrades or player salaries, this money is funding medical care for people who can’t afford it. The cash wil
The voting window for the Best of Mower County has opened and will stay open until July 2. In April and May, several businesses were shortlisted in each category, leaving up to five finalists for voters. Now residents can decide which local spot deserves the top honor in its field. This event
Geo Carcamo turned his love for people into a weekly habit in Eugene and Springfield. Since 2017, he’s been hosting trivia nights that feel more like game night with friends than a test of smarts. His events run Mondays at PublicHouse in Springfield and Tuesdays at beergarden in Eugene, drawing team
Portland still brags about being a city where art and small businesses thrive. But the places that once made it special are disappearing—not all at once, but one by one, like ice melting in spring. Rents are skyrocketing, forcing artists, writers, and shop owners to work extra jobs just to scrape by
Local stores and services often assume their biggest challenge is competing with big brands. But in 2026, something quieter is changing how customers find them—artificial intelligence. A recent look at how AI picks local recommendations showed some surprising truths. Most small businesses barely get
The Planters Peanut Center in downtown Suffolk feels like a living snapshot of 1960s American shopping. The air smells strongly of freshly roasted peanuts, and the walls are covered in vintage signs and photos of Planters products from decades ago. Many visitors grew up nearby and still remember thi
For fifteen years, Kollar Chocolates has been a well-known spot in Yountville, a small town in California’s wine country. The shop is now shutting down, but not before they sell off every last piece of chocolate. The owner, Chris Kollar, made the announcement on April 28, sharing the news on social
After months of searching, one woman turned a closed café into a space that feels both classic and modern. The converted Coastal Cafe now hosts Scullery Made, a place where giant sandwiches rule the morning and cocktails take over after four. The owner, who grew up in restaurants, chose Searsport fo
Duluth’s downtown just got a fresh spot for people looking to unwind. The Lighthouse Spa & Boutique opened its doors in Canal Park, offering a full day spa experience where locals can relax and recharge. Two of the co-owners previously worked at another spa in the area but wanted to create something
